Have you ever been cornered at a family gathering with the dreaded question, “So, how much do you earn?” Navigating this personal inquiry can be tricky.

15 Clever Replies for When Relatives Ask About Your Salary

To deflect the question while keeping the conversation light-hearted.

1. “Enough to afford my lifestyle.”

This answer is perfectly vague. It suggests contentment with your income without revealing any numbers.

2. “Oh, I never keep track. Money comes, money goes!”

This playful response implies a carefree attitude towards finances, steering the conversation away from specifics.

3. “I earn in smiles and memories.”

A whimsical answer like this highlights non-materialistic values and shifts the focus from money to personal fulfilment.

4. “Just a bit more than I need to become a full-time astronaut.”

A humorous exaggeration that’s so obviously false, it lightens the mood and sidesteps the question.

5. “Enough to keep my pet unicorn well-fed.”

Another humorous deflection that uses absurdity to avoid revealing actual figures.

6. “I’m still waiting for my Hogwarts letter, so I haven’t started earning yet.”

A playful nod to the Harry Potter series, indicating you’d rather not discuss your salary.

7. “As much as I deserve, but less than I desire.”

A clever, philosophical answer that hints at satisfaction but avoids specifics.

8. “Let’s just say, I make a fortune in experience and skills.”

This response emphasises the non-monetary value of your job, diverting the focus from salary.

9. “I’m in the top 10… percent of my own happiness index.”

This quirky answer suggests that your happiness and satisfaction are more important than your salary.

10. “I’m a millionaire – in monopoly money!”

A lighthearted joke that clearly avoids discussing your real income.

11. “Enough to know that money isn’t everything.”

A wise-sounding response that gently shuts down further inquiry into your finances.

12. “Oh, around a gazillion dreams per year.”

This dreamy, imaginative answer steers the conversation towards aspirations rather than bank balances.

13. “I earn in laughter and love, the rest is just for bills.”

A heartwarming response that prioritises emotional wealth over financial details.

14. “Let’s just say I’m not in the same tax bracket as Jeff Bezos!”

A humorous way to acknowledge you’re not ultra-rich without giving any specifics.

15. “Enough to know that discussing money at family gatherings is bad luck!”

This slightly superstitious reply adds a fun twist to the conversation, implying it’s better not to talk about money.

Suggestions for the Article:

  • Personalise Your Responses: Tailor your answers to reflect your personality. If you’re naturally funny, lean towards humorous replies. If you’re more serious, choose responses that reflect that.
  • Keep the Tone Light: Remember, the goal is to deflect the question without causing offence. Keep your tone light and friendly.
  • Transition Smoothly: After your response, smoothly transition the conversation to another topic. This helps avoid any awkward silence or insistence on the original question.
  • Understand Your Audience: Some relatives might not appreciate sarcasm or humour. Gauge their personality before choosing your reply.
  • Practise Your Responses: If you’re often asked about your salary, practise these responses. Being prepared will make you feel more confident in handling the situation.

By using these clever and funny replies when relatives ask you salary, you can navigate this tricky question with grace and humor, keeping family gatherings pleasant and free of financial prying.

Surya Deo